Indie author, Rich Weatherly recently released his début novella ~ “Closed Doors, A Trilogy”. Rich is an extremely talented writer who has some fascinating stories to tell. His ability to craft interesting characters and intrigue you with compelling plots, while maintaining such a high standard of writing throughout, is brilliant and the mark of a true storyteller. I always enjoy chatting with Rich, as he is always such an inspiring and interesting person. I asked Rich if he would mind doing a quick Q&A about what inspires him, and being the wonderfully cordial gentleman he is, he agreed…
You are such a talent, how did you come to be a writer?
My earliest inspiration for writing came by way of encouragement from an English teacher who set the bar high, expecting each of her students to do their best. Mrs. Layfield was a former college professor who passed on an appreciation for the romantic era poets of the Lake District in England. She gave me the inspiration to write poetry.
Not long after college I began writing technical manuals on equipment that I had used and worked on previously. Much of my career involved technical writing in its various forms; maintenance manuals, how-to books; science fair kit instructions, training manuals and later knowledge base articles for corporate technology. I used this background as a springboard into more creative copy writing; things like scripts for promotional product videos, brochures and such.
Just over a year ago in the summer of 2011, a friend encouraged me to try writing fiction, so I wrote my first short story. That led to another short story and a novella. Those short stories and the novella make up, Closed Doors, A Trilogy.
What does writing mean to you?
Writing is our most enduring way of communicating. As such, it gives writers and authors an opportunity to affect and in some small way, make this world a better place. Having said that, writing needs to entertain if we expect to retain our readers. I think most writers enjoy creating characters that readers identify with. I want readers to be drawn in and feel as if they are a part of the story. I want them to experience a full range of sensations, expectations and thrills. Good books have always presented me with vivid settings and engaging action scenes that have allowed me to imagine pictures better than major motion pictures have the budgets to pay for. I have fun getting into those stories before anyone else.
What is a typical day like for you?
I believe a good day begins with a good night’s rest, so I try to get in a good seven to eight hours sleep. My work starts in the morning during which time I either write, edit or plan writing projects. I allot about four hours for this portion of my day. Afterward, I take time to catch up on email, social media and promotional efforts. If there is time left in the day, I like to read a book on my TBR list.
When you are experiencing writers block what do you do to get out of it and back writing?
When I experience writers block, and notice I said when and not if, I find it helpful to read about similar subjects while listening to music that mirrors the setting I’m trying to write on. I have also learned that getting into the arts in their various forms helps break through a block. This includes visual arts and the performing arts. As an example, I’ve been stimulated to write while enjoying a beautiful ballet with its stirring music.
Where do you find your inspiration?
I find inspiration from various forms. Most of my inspiration is from personal experiences. I would be remiss to say that I didn’t find inspiration in great literature and in the works of other contemporary authors. The beauty of nature lifts my spirit and gets me in the mood to write as does great music.
Who are your literary heroes?
I have eclectic tastes so the authors I admire cover a broad spectrum of literature. At the moment I’m reading Dean Koontz’s, Odd Apocalypse. His Odd Thomas series has been a favorite of mine and I think Odd Apocalypse is my new favorite Dean Koontz novel. I have to admire Stephen King for his body of work in general and for giving back to new authors by writing his how to book, On Writing. Other writers I admire include: John Steinbeck, Charles Dickins, Clive Cussler, James Clavell, Robert Ludlam, James Michener, Vince Flynn and Shelli Johnson. There are too many others to mention.
Other than being a brilliant writer, do you have any other creative talents?
I’ve been involved in photography for many years and worked as a professional photographer for a time. At one time, I produced promotional videos for corporations. I continue to use photography as a creative outlet. Years ago, I sang in a choir and I have painted in watercolors and acrylic but to a limited degree.
Closed Doors, A Trilogy can be found at:
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Rich for taking the time to share his views with us. I recently reviewed Rich’s Novella and loved it; my review can be found here:
www.BelindaWitzenhausen.com
Belinda Witzenhausen 
Great Post Belinda. I have to read this book.
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Thanks Doris! I highly recommend it! 🙂
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